B&W Enters Headphones Market With Announcement Of P5

11/23/2009 02:00:00 AM Eastern

By: By Multichannel Staff

Bowers & Wilkins announced it would be entering the headphones market with the introduction of the P5.

The headphones are said to feature specially developed ultra-linear neodymium magnets and highly optimized Mylar diaphragms. The construction is meant to isolate noise for users who don't need full electronic noise cancellation; this is achieved through a combination of the closed-back design featuring a rigid metal faceplate, and the sealed-leather ear pads, Bowers & Wilkins said.

Other features include a leather headband, a Made for iPod-approved cable, and a standard audio cable. Switching between the two is facilitated by the magnetically attached ear pads that pop off to allow access to the cable, the company said.

The P5 will be available in January 2010. Pricing and further specs were not given at press time.